Akoranga reo Māori – lesson #7 Kupu māori – Common words

Ngā mihi o ngahuru ki a koutou katoa. Greetings of autumn to you all. Firstly, I should mention that the word 'māori' with a small 'm' in the heading above is not a typo. It is spelt in this way as in this context, it means common or regular.

Many kupu māori or Māori words are used regularly in Aotearoa and as such, have become firmly embedded in our vernacular. The following two akoranga will highlight are some of those words that you will commonly hear or see. Some of them may have been mentioned in previous akoranga however the repetition will help to reinforce your learning.

He Kupu - Word

Aroha Love, affection, compassion

Haere mai Welcome, come in, come here

Nau mai! Welcome!

Hīkoi Walk, march, journey

Hongi

Ceremonial pressing of noses to share the breath

Kaumātua Elder or elders

Koha Donation or gift

Kōrero Talk or speak

Mana Authority, power, influence, supernatural force

Manaakitanga Duty of care, hospitality, kindness to others

Pākehā

Raupatu

Noa

Tapu

European New Zealander-NOT “pig” (poaka=pig)

Confiscate, take by force

Safe from tapu, nonsacred, not restricted

Sacred, prohibited, restricted

Whānau Extended or nonnuclear family

Whenua Land and placenta

He whakapātaritari – A challenge

How many of these words were you already familiar with? How many of them do you use in your everyday conversations? Extend yourself by learning more of these kupu māori and start to embed those in your vocabulary as well.

I mōhio rānei koe? Did you know?

Following years of protest, court hearings and agitation, Māori television was launched on 28 March 2004 and it is now known as Whakaata Māori.

Peruse the channel. You may be surprised by what you know, and you may well find some programmes of interest to you and your whānau. They have a great selection.

Ahakoa he iti, kōrerotia te reo kua ākona e koutou, kia whakamanahia ai te reo Māori. E whakamoemiti ana.

Although it may be small, speak the language that has been learnt, so that the Māori language may be empowered. Thank you.

If you have any questions or feedback, please make contact via the email below. Hauora. Maori@cdhb.health.nz